Neonatal Nasotracheal Intubation

Endotracheal intubation is a standard procedure in neonatal care. Beside the oropharyngeal route the nasopharyngeal insertion is feasible. In this chapter, existing literature and personal experience were utilized to provide an overview of how the nasotracheal intubation procedure is performed. At the end of the chapter, pros and cons are considered. In conclusion, existing literature does not demonstrate either approach to be superior. The nasotracheal route seems to be more technically challenging and time consuming compared to orotracheal tube insertion. On the other hand, a nasotracheal tube may provide more efficient fixation, leading to improved airway stability. Tube tolerance and the likelihood of the tube kinking might also be better.